Chapter 341: The Purchase of the Satellites
Once the retrieval and inspection were done, Thomas Greene spoke to Michael on a private channel.
"So, Mr. Reyes, everything seems to have gone smoothly. No one suspects anything, thanks to your foresight," Greene said in relief.
"Good to hear, Mr. President," Michael replied, leaning back in his chair. "The erasure system worked as intended. The satellite is now just a piece of scrap metal in their eyes."
Greene exhaled deeply. "We dodged a bullet there. The joint operation was a diplomatic tightrope, but we managed to pull it off. Now, we need to focus on the next steps."
"Indeed," Michael said, swiveling his chair to look out the window. "What's your plan moving forward?"
"Well…in order for this thing to not happen again in our future operations, we'd like to go forward with buying your satellites and everything in it."
"So you have decided to purchase my satellite for 50 billion dollars," Michael reiterated the deal, making sure that the President understood.
The President simply nodded his head in confirmation. "It was not me who decided it, it was the Congress."
"Okay…but I'm not flying over to the United States and finishing the deal. Come on, I'm tired of long-distance flights. How about you send over a representative here to the Philippines and sign every necessary document?" Michael suggested.
Greene chuckled. "Fair enough, Michael. We'll arrange for a high-level representative to meet you there. Expect someone within the next few days."
"Perfect. I'll make sure everything is ready on my end," Michael replied, leaning back in his chair. "Anything else, Mr. President?"
"No, that will be all for now. Thank you, Michael. We'll be in touch soon," Greene said before ending the call.
Two days later, a private jet landed at Manila International Airport. Stepping off the plane was Robert Mitchell, a high-ranking official from the Department of Defense. Accompanied by a small team of aides and security personnel, he was there to finalize the satellite deal with Michael Reyes.
Upon arrival, they were greeted by Juliet.
"Welcome to the Philippines, Mr. Mitchell," she said, offering a polite smile. "I'll take you to Mr. Reyes' office. He's been expecting you."
"Thank you, Juliet. We're eager to get started," Mitchell replied as they made their way to a waiting car.
Back at Michael's office, preparations were in full swing. A large conference table had been set up, documents meticulously arranged, and a video link ready for a live connection to President Greene and other key officials in Washington.
As Mitchell and his team entered the office, Michael stood to greet them. "Mr. Mitchell, welcome. I hope you had a pleasant flight."
"Thank you, Mr. Reyes. The flight was smooth. We're ready to get down to business," Mitchell responded, shaking Michael's hand.
"Great. Please, have a seat," Michael said, gesturing to the conference table. "Let's go over the details one final time before we sign."
The next few hours, Michael detailed the technical aspects of the satellites, explaining the advanced weather manipulation capabilities and the embedded erasure system designed to protect sensitive data. They reviewed the contract terms, agreeing on an initial payment upon signing, followed by milestone-based payments as each deployment phase was completed.
The first phase involved the successful launch and deployment of the initial batch of satellites into low Earth orbit. This would be followed by a period of operational stability and functionality tests over a 30-day period, after which 20% of the total contract value would be paid upon successful validation.
The second phase required the integration of weather manipulation technology and the completion of comprehensive system tests. Verification of the technology's capabilities and fail-safe mechanisms would result in 30% of the contract value being paid upon successful completion of these tests.
The third phase would see the deployment of the remaining satellites and the commencement of full-scale operations. Continuous operational performance monitoring and adherence to safety protocols over a 60-day period would trigger another 30% of the contract value upon validation.
The final phase involved the validation of all systems, completion of training for operational personnel, and the handover of operational control. A final performance audit and certification by an independent body would result in the remaining 20% of the total contract value being paid.
Mitchell and his team carefully reviewed each phase, ensuring all details were meticulously documented. The structure ensured mutual satisfaction and accountability, mitigating risks and keeping the project on track.
Once all terms were agreed upon, the video link was activated, and President Greene, along with other key officials in Washington, appeared on the screen.
"Mr. Reyes, Mr. Mitchell, I understand everything has been finalized?" President Greene asked, looking pleased.
"Yes, Mr. President. We have reviewed all the details and are ready to proceed with the signing," Michael confirmed.
"Excellent. Let's make it official," Greene said.
Michael and Mitchell took their seats at the conference table. Juliet handed them the final contract documents. As they signed each page, the video feed provided a real-time view to the officials in Washington, ensuring full transparency.
Once the last signature was in place, Michael extended his hand to Mitchell. "It's a pleasure doing business with you, Mr. Mitchell. I look forward to a successful partnership."
"The pleasure is mine, Mr. Reyes. We're confident this collaboration will be beneficial for both parties," Mitchell replied, shaking Michael's hand firmly.
President Greene smiled through the video link. "Thank you, gentlemen. This is a significant step forward. Let's ensure this project sets a benchmark for future collaborations."
With the contract signed and the deal sealed, Juliet brought over a bottle of champagne and several glasses. She quickly and efficiently filled each glass, preparing for a celebratory toast.
"Congratulations to everyone involved in making this deal happen," Juliet said. She handed a glass to Michael, then to Mitchell, and finally raised her own glass. "To a successful partnership and many more milestones ahead."
Michael raised his glass, smiling at his team and the American representatives. "To innovation, collaboration, and a future where we can achieve great things together. Cheers!"
"Cheers!" echoed around the room as everyone clinked glasses.